Wakefield

A Korean Immigrant’s Journey to Home in Wakefield, UK

In the early 2000s, South Korea faced significant economic hardship, prompting many families to seek opportunities abroad. One such family was the Park family, who relocated to Wakefield, England, in 2002 after Min-jae Park’s brother had migrated earlier. Min-jae, a skilled mechanic from Daegu, South Korea, arrived with limited English and a vision to build a stable life for his family.

Upon arrival, Min-jae faced immediate challenges: the cold English climate, language barriers, and the unfamiliarity of British workplaces. He secured a job at a local manufacturing plant in Wakefield—a common destination for South Korean immigrants seeking industrial employment. Working long hours from dawn to dusk for six years, Min-jae saved money while struggling to learn English. He attended evening language classes at the Wakefield Community Centre, which was a hub for immigrant support in the town. His dedication earned him small victories: he learned to communicate with colleagues, joined a local volunteer group, and began to understand British customs.

The turning point came in 2008 when Min-jae saved enough money to open a small grocery store in Wakefield’s industrial district. Initially, the business faced setbacks—like shortages of supplies and cultural misunderstandings with customers—but Min-jae’s resilience shone through. He adapted by sourcing products from South Korean markets and integrating British customers through his growing English skills. By 2012, the store had expanded to include a small café, creating jobs for local residents and becoming a community hub. Min-jae’s success was not just economic; he actively supported other immigrants through mentorship and cultural events, helping Wakefield’s diverse community thrive.

Today, Min-jae Park lives in Wakefield with his wife and two children. He considers Wakefield his home—a place where he has built a life through hard work, perseverance, and community. His story reflects the broader experience of Korean immigrants in the UK, particularly in towns like Wakefield, which has a documented Korean community of over 1,000 people (as per the 2011 UK Census). Many South Koreans in similar circumstances have followed this path: working in manufacturing, learning English, and establishing businesses that anchor families in their new homes.